A long lie in this morning almost cost me breakfast. I made it just in time to pick from what was left of the buns and some cold meat slices.
I would prefer to be lazy today, but decide to visit Leuven. The town hall is opposite the train station, which makes it really easy to find without a map. A crowd is gathering in anticipation of a multicultural parade.
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| Leuven Town Hall. Photo courtesy Wikipedia Creative Commons |
Another train ride brings me to Mechelen. In the late 1600's, town residents rushed to fight the fire they thought was tearing through St. Rumbold's tower. It was only a reflection of the moon, the clouds created a flickering illusion on the tower's windows. Since then, residents of Mechelen have been known at "Maneblussers" or moon extinguishers.
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| St. Rumbold's cathedral. Photo courtesy Wikipedia Creative Commons |
Right beside the town hall, a street vendor has socks for sale, but when I open the package, I discover they are children's socks. Half the sock for half the price. Another vendor has army coats for sale. I barter the price down to 900 Belgium francs ($30), the price of staying warm.
I was able to change some money into guilders. I am so excited to see Jane!
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"The loveliest faces are to be seen by moonlight, when one sees half with the eye and half with the fancy"
~Persian Proverb
